Home / Methodology
How we rank gear
Same rules for every category, written down so you can check our work.
1. Rank by use case
We don't crown one "best" product for everybody. Each list has picks for specific jobs (best with no monthly fee, best for big fields, best on a budget) and an overall order for most hunters.
2. Evidence tiers
| Tier | What it means | What we show |
|---|---|---|
| A. DYLIO field-tested | We used it in the field under a written test plan. | DYLIO score (0–100) + criteria breakdown |
| B. Consensus | No DYLIO test yet. Order is based on published independent tests from reputable outlets, plus manufacturer specs. | Rank + "why it ranks here" with each outlet named and linked. No numeric DYLIO score. |
| C. Spec-only / new release | Too new for independent tests. | Listed under New Releases, never ranked. |
Every v1 list (including Trail Cameras) is Tier B and says so at the top.
3. Criteria and weights (Tier A scoring)
| Criterion | Weight | Example for trail cameras |
|---|---|---|
| Field performance | 30% | Trigger speed, detection range, recovery, measured on a marked course day and night |
| Output quality | 20% | Day/night photo and video clarity, motion blur |
| Durability & weather | 15% | Weeks outdoors in rain, cold and heat; latches, seals, antenna |
| Ease of use | 15% | Setup, app or menu, mounting, battery swaps |
| Value & cost to own | 15% | Street price plus batteries, data plans and required accessories over 2 seasons |
| Warranty & support | 5% | Length and terms of the manufacturer warranty |
Each criterion is scored 1–10 against a written rubric for that category, multiplied by its weight, and summed to a 0–100 score. Categories can adjust the sub-tests inside a criterion, never the weights, without publishing a changelog note.
4. Facts and sources
- Every spec, price and claim links to where we read it, usually the manufacturer and at least one independent test.
- When the maker's claim and an independent measurement disagree, we show both.
- Prices are dated snapshots, not promises. We re-check each list at least every 90 days and before hunting season.
- If we can't verify something, we leave it out or mark it unverified.
5. Sponsors and affiliates
- Sponsors can't buy rank. No payment changes a product's position, score or inclusion.
- Sponsored placements sit outside the ranked list, in a box labeled Sponsored.
- A sponsor's product in a list is judged by the same rubric, and the pick shows a "Brand is a DYLIO sponsor" note.
- Free review units are disclosed on the pick. We don't return them as a condition of coverage, and the brand gets no preview of the ranking.
- Affiliate links, if we add them, are disclosed at the top of the page and marked. Commission rates never factor into ranking.
6. Corrections
Spot an error? Corrections are logged at the bottom of the affected page with a date. Email corrections to doyoulikeitoutdoors@gmail.com.